At Lessans Camp JCC, Ethan and Bennett Blicher thrive thanks to dedicated counselors and a culture of inclusion, supported by The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and the Bender JCC.
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Creating a Community of Belonging
Making Space for All of Us
Belonging means feeling valued—even when we disagree. In a time of deep divides, within and beyond the Jewish community, we’re creating space for real, respectful conversation.
Especially around Israel, we believe our strength lies not in uniformity, but in our willingness to stay in relationship. We invest in learning, listening, and building empathy—not to erase conflict, but to make room for many perspectives to coexist with dignity.
This work is rooted in peoplehood, not politics. Because a strong Jewish future depends on our ability to stay connected across difference with curiosity, courage, and care.
What Grounds Us
Grounded in enduring Jewish values and strengthened by our diversity, we share a responsibility to care for one another and to build a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
We are guided by:
- B’tzelem Elohim (in the image of God) Every person is created with inherent dignity and infinite worth.
- Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) We are called to heal what is broken—within ourselves, our communities, and our world.
- Anavah (humility) We approach this work with humility, recognizing that our perspectives are shaped and limited by personal experience.
“It is not your responsibility to finish the work of perfecting the world, but neither are you free to desist from it.” —Pirkei Avot 2:16
How We Show Up
As The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and the Jewish Community Foundation, we recognize that building a more connected Jewish community takes more than intention—it takes action.
That means:
- Using our voice to stand up against antisemitism and its impact
- Partnering with leaders and organizations across Greater Washington to advance inclusion and belonging
- Examining how our own actions (and inactions) can uphold systems of bias or exclusion
- Acknowledging and addressing persistent inequities through learning, reflection, and growth
Together, we’re working toward a Jewish community that is open, connected, and caring—one that fosters meaning, embraces peoplehood and Israel, and acts as a force for good in the world.
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In a time of deep divides, this reflection calls for embracing diverse viewpoints within the Jewish community as a strength—urging humility, connection, and a shared commitment to our collective future.
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Federation’s Teens and Youth Working Group visited Capital Camps to see firsthand how Jewish summer camp shapes identity, nurtures mental health, and builds lifelong community—made possible through shared investment, financial aid, and strong partnerships.
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The Iris Music Project is transforming life for older adults through its innovative Ensemble-in-Residence model, embedding musicians in senior living facilities to create lasting relationships and reduce loneliness. Founded in Greater Washington, the program offers consistent, meaningful engagement that builds community and well-being beyond entertainment.
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Standing together against hate
We partner with diverse communities to confront hate, foster understanding, and build a more inclusive, connected future.
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